A day in the life

This story is one that is included in an anthology I'm currently working on. I wanted to get some imput on it please let me know what you guys think about it. And if it should be included. It is for a novel of psychological horror. The story itself isn't terribly psychological, though it has some of the horror elements as well as a quirky bit of a twist. I hope you like it!...

I raced home with my tail between my legs .

My embarrassment knowing no bounds.

My first thought was mom.

How would she feel if she knew?

Would she still love me?

I shook off those thoughts, visibly tossing my

Self recriminations from my mind.

As I rounded the block I saw some of the same guys that I'd just fought with.

They were flexing on the corner.

All loud and boisterous.

Yeah just wait, I got something for all of Yall!

I quickly ducked into the alley, in back of my house. Trying to catch my breath before I got

home. I don't need mom to be worried about what I'm up to…

home. I don't need mom to be worriedabout what I'm up to…

Which was my grind of course!

Gotta get that money you know!

But it's brutal out here!

You gotta be on your toes!

Some dude could come up and take you out

just for existing!

Crazy right? I should say where I live it's kinda

dog eat dog, you know what I mean?

You could end up missing real quick and people were quick to snatch my people up you know?

I was currently at odds with this mean old dude on my block. The crazy sob would see me and howl for his cronies!

Next thing I knew, I would be running for my life!

They were straight up feral!

But I do alright though; I hold my own.

Usually…. There was too many of them this time. But it's not over!

I casually stroll in, seating myself next to my mom. She was in her nurse's uniform.

Already, dressed to go to work.

To leave me here again…

It was all good, I'm already a teen.

I just don't really like it when she's not here.

I tend to get in trouble.,..

I am a good kid though; it's just hard when you have so many obstacles to face everyday.

Some people just don't know what we go through on a daily basis…

I put a smile on my face as she ruffled my hair.

I turned, making sure she gave the other side some love as well.

My mom had magic hands y'all!

When I was mad or sad, my mom would hold me and kiss me. Whispering softly, soothingly in my ears that everything was going to be okay.

I can't even express how much I love her!

I don't care if dudes think I'm weak for it.

I'm going to want kisses and hugs from my mom when I'm 80!

She speaks to me in a weary voice.

She's tired… I'm pissed!

If my dad was a man he would be helping us!

Just because their marriage didn't work that's no reason to just dip!

Just because their marriage didn't workhat's no reason to just dip!

When I become a dad I won't leave my kids! Not by choice!

That shit means something to me!

I smile inside; knowing mom would be surprised to hear me curse. I wasn't raised like that.

But I'm "adjusting" to my surroundings.

We didn't always live here; we use to stay in a very posh high-rise in the middle of the city with my dad.

Very rich neighbors. All kinds of amenities!

Man I miss that place!...

But there were downsides.

I was younger then so I couldn't leave out, on my own. Always had to have a chaperone.

Some of the tenants didn't like me so they were

always looking out; waiting to catch me doing something crazy.

But here; I just feel alone…

I mean, I know she's gotta work.

I get that. But I just hate when she leaves.

I have to get out of here when she does, I don't like being here by myself.

She got up; dark crescents of sleeplessness

hollowed the area under her eyes.

She smiled sweetly as she reached for her purse and keys.

"Don't go out and get into trouble."

Little did she know!...

"I'm serious baby. Don't make me so worried; out "here" looking for you."

"It's too dangerous"...

I had to say okay, but you already know!...

She had made me something to eat before she left, so I smashed real quick.

My momma was a great cook!

She was into healthy eating, so she didn't eat much meat.

Me on the other hand… I was a carnivore!

I relied on a diet heavy in succulent flesh.

And she fixed it perfectly!

Nothing fake or out of a can!

All fresh meat!

With some fruits and vegetables thrown in as well. Gotta be balanced!

And she made sure to look up recipes and nutritional facts, it was important to her.

So I took it seriously.

In the house!

Once I left out this door all bets were off!

I ate whatever I wanted!

And I mean whatever! I didn't mess with chocolate though and some vegetables due to allergies

And while I appreciated her efforts, I did need the "good stuff" from time to time.

I got sleepy all of a sudden so I started to head to my room; ready to get some rest…

The phone rang before I left the living room.

I waited for the message that would come.

I "was not" about to answer. I already knew who it was….I waited for the beep as the message came through;

"Hey, it's John. I just wanted to see how you were doing"…

"I know I don't have the right to say it but …

I miss you guys"... I still love you"...

He actually had the nerve to sound sad!

Yeah, you love us so much you fucked

somebody else, then got a whole divorce when ma told you she wasn't feeling that.

And you left us there, at the high-rise; knowing ma didn't have enough to pay for everything by herself!

But you "miss" us, yeah. Okay!..

I quickly went to the answering machine and deleted the message. Just like I do any other

time he calls.

If he cared, he would have come here!

She gave him her forwarding information.

Even though I told her not to.

He wasn't worth it..

After staying up so many nights with her after she had found out; then when he left us, I lost all respect for him.

She had cried and pleaded…

and I had cried and pleaded with her not to beg him for anything

The settlement money was so paltry she had to start working again!

My momma hadn't worked since I was born!

But I wasn't a baby anymore!

I knew I would have to use my wiles to help my mom! No questions!

She needed me, I could see that.

I couldn't even sleep anymore. I was so mad!

I decided to exercise to let off some steam.

After that I just left. My ma would be gone for a while, so I could sneak out and be back before she did.

Leaving out the back, I ducked around to the front. Inspecting the block, trying to gauge whether it was safe to go

All clear! I breathed a sigh of relief.

I've got other things on my mind.

I don't have time to deal with hood dudes right now. I was on a mission!...

I knew where to go …

I'd been peepin this lick for a minute.

The dudes driving the big, shiny truck were so careless! They would actually play with the money from time to time

Tossing it around like it was theirs!

Having a good 'ol time!

I already told myself I needed a diversion.

Something to distract them fools long enough to get what I needed and be out!

I spotted it about halfway to the location.

It was a big, fat ass rat!

Grey fur slicked down in odd places, crazy long whiskers! Sharp front teeth sticking out of it's mouth.

I didn't really want to touch it, but this was necessary. I waited until it's back was turned.

Occupied by something…

I pounced, grabbing it firmly by the back of it's head and neck.

It tried feebly to get away but my grip tightened.

Causing it to squeak in fear.

Don't worry dude, don't move… I won't hurt you.

I spotted the truck the moment I got to the spot.

The drivers were already loading the money into the bulky machine.

Two were doing this with one in the back, standing guard

I quickly ducked around him, hopping up into the back.

I was stealthy as I looked for what I needed.

Spotting the tan bag that held my mom's and my future, I dumped the rat.

Grabbing the bag I crouched in the dark, waiting for the rat to get curious.

He went right up to the guy. Smelling his pants as he stood just outside the truck.

I gave him a warning swipe so he would get scared and climb dudes' leg.

I laughed as the guy lost it, running into the other guys, yelling and screaming!

It was just enough chaos to allow me to slip out unnoticed.

Being small had its perks.

I'm out! Running like something was chasing after me!

My feet barely touched the ground as I flew through the neighborhood.

Head down, ducking low so I wouldn't be noticed. I held onto the bag for dear life.

This was our lifeline!

And I would be damned before I let someone else take it!

I hopped a set of short bushes as I came around the corner. My adrenaline pumping full blast.

I jumped and raced through the tricky parts of the block. Knowing all the booby traps and

set up spots, I would NOT get caught slippin.

Not this time!....

Dipping quickly into the alley I sprinted towards my house.

My feet skidding and sliding as I rushed to safety.

As soon as I reached my door I dashed upstairs to my mom's room.

Dropping the bag on the bed and running back down.

I don't know why I ran; just amped up I guess.

As I reached the landing I heard a noise.

Unusual… I know I'm supposed to be alone.

Yet, clearly I hear something.

I sneak around the corner, adrenaline blasting

but now for another reason.

I peer quietly around into the kitchen.

By the back door.

I can't believe what I'm seeing!

It's my dad!

He somehow got in and was looking around with sadness. How long had he been here?!

What the hell did he want?

I wasn't feeling bothered to try and talk to him. I tried to slip out around him but he saw me.

Calling out to me.

I paused for like a second.

Deciding I wasn't ready to forgive him yet.

I kept going, heading out the door.

I hid back, watching him.

Seeing what he would do…

He looked around, confusion and frustration

contorting his features.

He clutched a key tightly in his hand, clucking

dejectedly before getting quickly into his sports car and speeding off.

Good riddance! We don't need you!..

Even as I said this, tears of anger and sadness clouded my vision. I wiped my face with my arm.

Turning, I try to head to the back.

I bumped someone that had come up behind me, making me stumble. Trying to retain my balance, I nimbly pivoted to the left instantly on alert for trouble.

It was him. The old dude.

He looked at me with wild eyes, standing as tall as he could. Arms outstretched, ready

for war.

I wasn't trying to mix with him right now.

I had important things to do.

I tried once again to step past him.

I heard his cronies hooting behind me.

He stepped towards me, aggression in his every move. I stepped back , trying to keep an eye on everyone around me.

He spoke so harshly, so intimidatingly!

I was used to being afraid of him.

He was older, bigger, meaner.

But I was younger, quicker, more agile!

I could take him!

I rose up as well, letting all the bad words I wasn't allowed to speak burst forth.

I gave as good as i got. Letting him

have it! Yelling and screaming, trying to intimidate him right back.

We were gathering a small crowd, all standing around with open interest.

Waiting to see who would throw the first blow

To my surprise he charged!

Coming at me full strength! I managed to evade the worst of it but he did glance a blow off the side of my head!

I felt the rush of wind first, then a sting of pain as the blow connected.

I shook off the sensation. Realizing he was not playing and we would have to Duke it out.

Or worse!...

He charged me again, hooking his arms into my sides and yanking me off my feet.

I slammed to the ground!

Stunned by the brutal force!

He jumped at me again, twisting his hands up on my scalp and yanking with all his might.

I felt a trickle roll down my face, into my eyes.

I was bleeding!

He was back standing now, talking aggressive and boastful. Bolstered by the crowd, who upon seeing the blood erupted into a frenzy

They were actually enjoying this!

Didn't they care that I was just a kid!

Did they have no sympathy at all!?

On my back; I drew my legs up in a defensive posture. Waiting for him to try and strike at me

again. He circled me for a minute, sizing me up as if to show me I didn't have a chance!

I felt an anger surge through me as I formed

my strategy in my head. As soon as he got close enough, I tripped him. Dodging quickly to escape his impact with the ground.

But he was tough, he swiveled, catching his balance quite nimbly for an old guy.

He bellowed with rage as he shot his body

at me like a torpedo!

His eyes were huge and demented!

This dude wanted my life!

I could see murder in his eyes!

It was time to end this. For good…

He repeatedly struck at me with lightening speed! His blows sometimes glancing off me, sometimes hitting me.

The blows rained down viciously!

I could only protect my head as I waited for him to tire a bit.

When he rose again to full height I could see

something small and sharp glisten in the sunlight. He was going to stick me!

I turned quickly to my left. My eyes searching for someone, something to help me!

Suddenly I thought of my mom, coming home

searching for me. Only to find my

lifeless body!

I saw her bend to my torn and bleeding form.

Taking me in her arms as she screamed in rage and pain!....

I couldn't allow that to happen!

He had lived his life and wanted to take mine!

Not today! Not ever!

Spying a jagged piece of glass just on the side of me I swiped at his legs again.

This time, he pitched forward.

Falling onto my legs.

I grabbed him roughly. Thrusting him head first unto the street, and the wicked piece of glass.

He fell heavily, the glass crunching violently

into the side of his skull.

He jerked spastically, his arms flailing wildly.

The force alone broke his neck.

The glass piercing his head finished him off.

I jumped up, grabbing onto his head;

pushing as hard as I could to make sure he stayed down…

I stayed there, long after his twitches had stilled.

Long enough to see the blood start to run from his oozing gash.

Shock kicked in. I just killed him!

He is dead! I quickly got up, looking around.

Some of his close friends stood around in shock as well, grabbing at his body and screaming for help.

He was clearly past that.

Some of the younger "hoods" looked at me

with a bit of awe. A lot of fear.

The crowd parted for me.

I stumbled my way to my house. Hoping my mom hadn't made it home yet.

The fight felt like it took forever .

But was probably only a few minutes.

Once home, I checked my wounds.

They were no longer bleeding.

Didn't even hurt anymore.

I tried to check myself, to make sure I didn't

look like I'd been into anything.

I was okay. I'd been worse.

I wondered if I would be held accountable for what had happened.

If someone would tell.

It would be surprising if they did.

My kind died everyday and NO ONE

seemed to be held accountable.

I tried to play it cool as I heard her come in.

She took her purse, put it on the table.

Grabbing the mail she sat down.

I walked up to her, getting on her lap and just holding her. She placed the mail to the side.

Cradling my head and stroking me softly.

I could no longer be the kid I was. Now, I

was an adult. But I didn't know how to let this go! My mom "was" my lifeline.

Not the money…

The money! I shot up persuading her to come with me. She laughed, thinking I was being silly. But she came regardless.

Taking the stairs slowly on tired legs.

When we got to her room, I plopped myself on the bed. Waiting for her to open the bag.

"What is this?". She held the bag in her hands,

turning it round and round.

I implored her to open it. She did so at her

leisure. I became impatient.

Pressing her onward.

Finally she had the stacks of cash in her hand

She gasped in surprise. Her hands dropping the money, flying up to cover her mouth.

I laughed in delight. Splashing through the now unwrapped bills. My legs in the air.

She swatted me playfully. Laughing at my antics. Before a thoughtful expression came to her face. She laughed again, catching my face in her hands.

"Do you know what this means!?"

She squealed with delight, laying by my side.

"Did your dad do this?"

"I gave him the key so he could see you."

She turned her head towards me.

"He said you ran"...

I remained silent.

"You should forgive him, he is your dad."

I yawned loudly. It had been a long day.

I lay my head on her stomach, just enjoying

the moment with her.

We were interrupted by knocking.

Someone was at the door.

I let her go down first. Just in case it was

someone who was there for me.

It was her friend Vanessa, she was in

the middle of a very animated story when I came down.

"Girl, yes they killed him." My baby!"

"I heard all this screaming, and fighting!

"I look out and see all these damn cats

in the streets, surrounding two others "

"My baby and another, smaller cat were

fighting."

"Couldn't see what it looked like because of the other cats. Buck was all reared up girl!"

"He was actually squading up to this cat!"

Like a human!"

"But honestly , he was crazy these last few years. I just didn't have the heart to put him

down. This was a long time coming"...

I saw the tears in her eyes , they slowly slid down her cheeks. I felt a bit sad for her.

NOT for him. He deserved it…

I walked over to her, placing my hand on her leg. She picked me up, cradling my soft fur

with her face. I kissed her tears away with my

muzzle. She was the sweetest!

Almost as nice as my mom..

I wanted her to be okay. She sighed and gently put me on the floor

"Your baby is so sweet! He always makes me feel so loved!" She sat back.

Her head resting on the back of the couch.

"He is always so well behaved, you never

have to worry about him getting hurt"...

My mom looked at me in silent contemplation.

She smiled, and shook her head.

"No, I guess not."

I walked back to my room.

Plopping down on my bed and closing my eyes…